The Power of One: 10 Beautiful Monochromatic Rooms

Of course we're huge fans of mixing colors here at Apartment Therapy — we've never been afraid of unusual combinations. But while pairing colors you wouldn't usually see together can be bold and attention-getting, what can be equally striking is using multiple shades of the same color in a single room for a rich, textured effect. It's a look that requires a lot of dedication (no National Geographics in the pink room, please!), but one with a big payoff.

TOP ROW:1. Shades of grey from Design*Sponge.2. Blue curtains, blue chairs, blue walls — just right. Image by Simon Watson for Redbook.3. There's a lot going on in this room, but the uniform palette keeps it soothing. From Chanintr Living.4. Even more shades of grey, punched up with just a little pink, from designer James Thomas.5. Pink on pink on pink (with a little gold for good measure). Image from Lonny.

BOTTOM ROW:6. Your eye could get lost in this lush, all-black room. Todd Yoggy, via Desire to Inspire.7. We love the contrast between this room's traditional detailing and modern furnishings — and the way a single hue brings it all together. Studio WM via Artnau. (Love the lamp? It is here. Sofa is here.)8. Aqua sofas complement aqua walls and reflect the greens in a delicious jungle carpet. Dorothy Draper then, now, and forever. The Greenbrier Hotel, via Elements of Style.9. A lush all-blue dining room by designers Michael Coorengel and Jean-Pierre Calvagrac. House & Garden via Architectural Digest.10. An all-pink bedroom from the 2007 Kips Bay Show House, designed by Jamie Drake.